Marbling Pots: Easy Painted Clay Pots with Marbling Technique

Marbling pots is easier than you might think! You can create a beautiful marbled flower pot in just minutes using our simple painting technique. I’ve enjoyed using this method for painting clay pots multiple times. This technique makes marbling any surface quick and easy. Once you master it, you’ll find yourself looking around your home for other items to marble!

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How To Make Marbling Pots

If you are looking for a way to add some color to your outdoor decor this summer, consider making spray-painted marbled flower pots. This spray paint marbling technique is one of my favorites, and I always find a reason to incorporate it into my home, whether indoors or outdoors!

Supplies Needed To Make Marbling Pots

Clay pots
Paint (I like to use a paint that says it is good for terracotta to make this project go a bit quicker. One of my favorites is Patio Paint.)
Spray paint (in a contrasting color)
Plastic bin (an old one works great)
Protective gloves
Paintbrushes
Stencil (see options below for making a stencil on your Cricut machine)
Sealer (something good for outdoor use)

Step 1: Paint Clay Pots

Before starting this project, make sure to paint your planter pot. It’s best to paint both the outside and the inside of the terracotta pot. This will help prevent moisture from damaging your painted finish.

I painted my pot using white patio paint. The lighter the paint color, the more coats will be necessary. Apply one coat of paint and let it dry completely before adding another. Be sure to allow all coats to dry fully before moving on with the project.

NOTE: I did NOT paint all the way down inside of this pot, but I would recommend it for lasting results!

Step 2: Add Spray Paint Marbling

Now that you have a painted pot, it’s time to create a paint marbling effect using spray paint. Start by filling a plastic container with water; make sure to do this outdoors. Choose a container that is large enough to submerge most of your pot, and pick one that you don’t plan to use again, as it will get messy.

Apply the spray paint directly onto the surface of the water. Use a generous amount of paint here. I am using one color, but feel free to use multiple colors at the same time.

adding spray paint to water in a container

The spray paint will float on the water’s surface. You should immediately dip your items in the paint.

spray paint floating on water in a container

Dip in your painted pot. Be sure to wear protective gloves for this entire process, as you will likely get the spray paint on your hands.

Begin rotating the pot immediately so the paint on the water adheres to the surface.

holding a clay pot in water with spray paint

Continue to rotate the pot until you either go all the way around the pot or there is no more paint on the surface of the water. Set the pot aside to dry. This will dry very quickly, so you won’t have to wait long to move onto the next step!

spray paint marbling technique with a clay pot

The best part of this technique is that the results are always a fun surprise. You never know exactly the look you will get as a final result!

Step 3: Add A Stenciled Monogram

Once the planter is dry, you can add a monogram if you would like. After all, when making easy painted clay pots, it is fun to add a stenciled design to really set it off!

How To Make A Stencil

You can get your stencil in a variety of ways. You can definitely purchase a stencil that you love from the store; however, making your own custom stencils is easy with a Cricut machine. I like using a self-adhesive stencil with a rounded surface from the list below.

Step 1: Pick Font

Pick a font that you like for your design and add it to Cricut Design Space. I have my favorite monogram fonts here.

Step 2: Resize Letter

Resize the letter to fit your clay pot.

Step 3: Cut Stencil Vinyl

Cut the design with your Cricut machine out of stencil vinyl.

NOTE: You can also use regular vinyl.

That is it! You can have a custom stencil in minutes with a monogram letter or even a graphic design of your choice.

NOTE: If you would prefer to make a reusable stencil with your Cricut machine, you can do that as well. See my instructions here for making a stencil from stencil film.

How To Paint Using A Stencil

Now that you have your stencil cut, you will want to weed away any excess. In this case, you want to weed away any vinyl that is in areas you want to paint on your surface.

Then peel the vinyl back and stick it to the surface of your painted pot. Be sure to press it down well in all areas for the best results. You can use transfer tape to help you move the stencil if the design is intricate.

Then just paint the area inside of your stencil with a contrasting paint color. Remember to still use paint that is made for outdoor use.

For stenciling, I like using a pouncer brush and applying light coats. Paint several light coats, working from the outside of the stencil to the inside. This will help to prevent bleeding under your stencil edges.

Step 4: Seal Your Marbling Pots

Once you are happy with the coverage of the paint in the stencil area, peel back the stencil and allow the paint to dry completely. Then you will want to seal the entire pot with a sealer made for outdoor use, so that the painted clay pots last as long as possible.

Step 5: Add Plants To Marbling Pots

All that is left to do is to add a plant inside your project and enjoy it! You may also want to repeat this entire technique on a matching saucer for your pot. This will complete the overall look.

They also make excellent gift ideas for anyone on your list! By adding their monogram, you can create a pot that they will cherish for years to come.

So grab some paints in the color of your choice and get started on your own version of these easy painted clay pots. I really think you will love how beautiful they turn out!

FAQs About Marbling Pots

Here are a few common questions that I often see readers asking about marbling pots. If you have a question, please check if I’ve already addressed it below. If you don’t see your question listed, please leave it in the comments

Can I Adjust The Size Of These Clay Pots?

Technically, yes. Any size of terracotta pot will work with this tutorial; however, a larger surface is easier for the stenciling portion.

What Cricut Machine Can I Use For This Project?

All of them! The Cricut Maker, Cricut Explore, and Joy series, as well as the Cricut Venture, can all cut stencil vinyl!

How Do I Marble With Multiple Colors Of Spray Paint?

If you want to marble with multiple colors of spray paint, all you need to do is spray each of your colors into the water, then dip your clay pot as in step 2.

5 More Flower Pot Crafts

Did you love these marbling pots and want more flower pot crafts? Then check out the projects below!